What does virtually mean?
Virtually is an adverb with several related uses. In ordinary English, it means almost or nearly, as in “virtually everyone agreed,” often implying that a small exception or gap remains. It can also mean for practical purposes or in effect: something virtually identical, for example, is indistinguishable in all but a minor respect. In technical and digital contexts, virtually means in a virtual, simulated, or computer-generated environment rather than in physical reality. The word is natural in formal and informal British and American English and is useful when near-total agreement, reduction, or equivalence needs to be expressed without claiming absolute certainty. It can occasionally create ambiguity, particularly when “almost” and “in virtual reality” could both be plausible. Etymologically, the word belongs to the family of Latin virtus, meaning virtue, excellence, or strength, through virtual and virtuality. Its modern sense “almost” developed through the idea of something being true in effect or in principle.
adverbIn general use, virtually means almost or nearly. In computing and other technical contexts, it can also mean in a virtual or simulated environment rather than in physical reality.
- Almost or nearly, often with the implication that a small exception or difference remains.
- For practical purposes or in effect, especially when describing something that is almost identical, complete, or unchanged.
- In a virtual or simulated environment rather than in physical reality.
"The new system has virtually eliminated the need for manual paperwork."
"The two versions are virtually identical, with only a minor difference in formatting."
"The exhibition allows visitors to explore a virtually reconstructed ancient city."
Virtually hides an unexpected journey: from Latin virtus, meaning virtue or excellence, to the modern idea of being almost, but not quite, something.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does virtually come from?
Virtually is an adverb formed from virtual plus the suffix -ly in the early 17th century. Virtual comes from Latin virtualis, which derives from virtus, meaning virtue, excellence, or strength; the later sense “almost” developed from the idea of something being true in effect or in principle. Related forms such as virtue, virtuous, virtuality, and virtuoso are ultimately connected with the same Latin root.
How virtually is actually used
Virtually is neutral in register and common in both British and American English. Its meaning can occasionally be ambiguous when a sentence could refer either to something being almost true or to something existing in a simulated environment, so a more explicit expression may be preferable when precision matters.
Easily confused with virtually
Virtual describes something existing in a simulated or digital form, whereas virtually is an adverb meaning almost, effectively, or in a virtual environment.